NYC Sidewalk Repair Permit Guide (2026): Cost, Timeline, How to Pull One

Every sidewalk repair in NYC requires a DOT permit — a Sidewalk Repair permit filed through the NYCStreets portal, $135, valid for 90 days. Only a DCWP-licensed contractor with a DOT permittee account and current insurance on file can pull one; owners cannot self-permit concrete work. Approval is typically same-day to 5 business days. Landmark blocks add an LPC permit, street trees add NYC Parks review, and catch basins add DEP sign-off. Unpermitted work is itself a violation and can be ordered removed and re-poured.

What the permit costs in 2026

• DOT sidewalk repair permit: $135, 90-day validity.
• Permit extension/renewal: re-filing fee at the same rate if work slips past 90 days.
• LPC permit (landmark district): no DOT fee, but adds 2-8 weeks of review.
• NYC Parks tree work authorization: required before any root cutting; 1-4 weeks.
• DEP sign-off: required when work abuts a catch basin or sewer appurtenance.
• Insurance requirement: permittees must carry general liability and workers' comp on file with DOT — this is why unlicensed crews can't legally pull permits.

How to pull the permit, step by step

1. Confirm the contractor holds an active DCWP Home Improvement Contractor license and a DOT permittee account. Ask for both numbers and verify them.
2. Pull the Pavement Inspection Record for the BBL so the permit scope matches the cited defects.
3. Log into NYCStreets and file under Permits, selecting the sidewalk repair permit type for the correct borough and BBL.
4. Enter dimensions and quantities — square footage of flags, linear feet of curb, apron area — matching the PIR.
5. Attach insurance certificates if not already current on the permittee account.
6. Pay the $135 fee and download the approved permit. It must be on site during work.
7. Schedule the pour inside the 90-day window, then file the re-inspection request through the same portal to close the violation.

Permit paths compared

How to choose a permittee

1. Ask for the permit number before the pour, not after. A real permittee sends you the PDF; a subcontractor working under someone else's account often can't.
2. Confirm who files the dismissal. The permit closes the work; the re-inspection request closes the violation. They are two separate filings.
3. Check the 90-day window against your 75-day clock. Pull the permit early — it's the cheap hedge that keeps a scheduling slip from becoming a city emergency repair.
4. Reject "no permit needed for a small patch." There is no square-footage exemption for sidewalk work in the public right of way.

FAQ

Can I pull a sidewalk permit myself as the owner?

No. DOT issues sidewalk repair permits to registered permittees carrying insurance on file. Owner-performed concrete work in the right of way is not permittable.

What happens if the work is done without a permit?

DOT can issue an additional violation and require the unpermitted concrete be removed and re-poured under permit — you pay twice.

Does the permit close my violation?

No. The permit authorizes the work. The violation closes only after a re-inspection request is filed and DOT inspects the repair against the PIR.

What if my permit expires before the work is done?

File a renewal before it lapses. Pouring under an expired permit is treated as unpermitted work.